Globally, the proportion of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) deaths is predicted to rise from 59% in 2002 to 69% of all deaths by 2030 (1). The NCDs profile has been suggested to be changing rapidly globally. For example, the growing patterns of the elderly, economic growth, and rapid urbanization, which characterized a shift in dietary patterns and a lack of physical activity, resulted in an increase in NCD morbidity and mortality worldwide [2-4]. Furthermore, the interconnected risk factors resulting from lifestyle, such as elevated blood pressure (BP), waist circumference (WC), blood sugar, and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, are among the leading risk factors for NCDs in Africa. In addition, insulin resistance (IR) and high levels of leptin are said to be underlying markers of metabolic syndrome risk factors in the African population [5]. However, such evidence is limited in the rural South African population, of which the majority of the population labels death from the NCDs as witchcraft. ..read more

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KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Prof Han CG Kemper

Vu Medical University, Amsterdam
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Dr Geofrey Musinguzi

Makerere University, Uganda
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Prof LL Leach

University of the Western Cape
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Prof Lebo Francina Gafane-Matemane

North West University- Potchefstroom Campus
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Prof Zandile June-Rose Mchiza

South African Medical Research Council
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Prof Glenda Davison

Cape Peninsula University of Technology
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Prof Muzi Maseko

University of Witswaterand
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Dr Tumiso Malatji

Limpopo Provincial Department of Health
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Prof Shisana Baloyi

University of the Free State
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Prof Tholene Sodi

University of Limpopo
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